Age Of Fire set for step-up in trip
A step up in distance is expected to bring an improved showing from Age Of Fire in Saturday’s Group 1 Rosehill Guineas (2000m).
He will be coming off an unplaced effort in his Australian debut in the Group 1 Randwick Guineas (1600m), in which he found the competition too sharp over a mile.
“I thought he was okay. He drew awkwardly, and he’s got another one (15) on Saturday, and had to go back in a quick race,” said Jamie Richards, who trains with Stephen Autridge.
“His work since has been very good and 2000m is what he’s looking for now. He’s been out to the beach a couple of times and he’s enjoyed that.”
Age Of Fire is on a path toward the A$2 million Group 1 Australian Derby (2400m), also the goal of his stablemate Mongolianconqueror, who will oppose him on Saturday.
“He travelled over well and he’s been doing the same lead-up work as Age Of Fire,” Richards said.
“He’s drawn awkwardly in 21 so he’ll need some luck. He’ll go back and should be doing his best work late.
“We’re keeping our fingers crossed that the showers miss Rosehill.”
Narrowly beaten in the Group 1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) at his last appearance, Mongolianconqueror will be ridden by stable jockey Opie Bosson while Jason Collett will continue his association with Age Of Fire.